Christmas Greetings from our company Sales Director & Partner: Victor Van den Driessche
Dear clients,
On behalf of the entire team at Prestige Properties, I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!
This year, especially, we would like to say a special thank you to all our clients, for their support and trust during these difficult times. We hope you all are able to be with your loved ones during the holidays and we send our warm thoughts from the Island.
Let’s all look forward to a happy 2021, staying safe and enjoying a lovely end to the year.
Market News
We would also like to take this occasion to give you some news about the real estate market in Ibiza. Surprisingly, the sales market has been very active and prices have remained stable throughout the health crisis.
At Prestige, we are proud and thankful to say that our sales numbers are very similar to those of 2019, despite needing to close our office for approximately 3 months. Undeniably, fewer clients viewed properties due to travel restrictions, but those determined to purchase a home in Ibiza, continued on their buyer’s journey successfully, giving us great confidence to face next year with optimism and positivity.
Selling prices have remained very stable throughout. Upon analysis from our sales database, we can see the price per square meter has risen from an average of 6.665€ in 2019 to 7.021€ in 2020. These statistics have confirmed our speculation (among our partners and collaborators), that the interest in Ibiza has actually grown during the health crisis, with more and more clients looking to fulfil their dream life, in a more natural environment, away from the inconveniences of the large metropoles.
"The price per square meter has even risen from an average of 6.665€ in 2019 to 7.021€ in 2020"
The rental market however has been more complicated, with a drop of approximately 50%, as a result of cancellations and ongoing restrictions. Naturally, these complications were to be expected, and we anticipate next summer will return back to normal. This anticipation is largely related to receiving more requests than ever before for Winter Rentals, with the bookings and enquiries also looking very promising for next season 2021 (don’t miss the early bird promo available until the end of 2020).
Covid in Ibiza – Update
The level of alert in Ibiza has just gone down from Level 3 to Level 2, on a scale of 4. Traveling to the Balearics is still allowed: all travellers (over the age of 6 years) must fill out a health control form and provide a negative-result from their Covid PCR test done in the previous 72 hours.
Ibiza is now in Alert Level 2: Medium risk sustained and widespread community transmission with increasing pressure on the health system. You can find all the information about traveling to the Balearic islands in the following link: https://www.caib.es/sites/covid-19/es/covid-19
Winter Holidays on the Island
Those relatively positive virus-related numbers are allowing us to receive clients in their second residence or in one of our rental villas for the winter holidays.
Winter is a unique chance to discover the island during a very different time of the year and escape the very strict lockdowns of bigger cities. The majority of the island’s favourite local bars, restaurants, and markets remain open, and the weather is usually sunny and around 20ºc, so perfect conditions for outdoor sports, walks along the beach, or breathing in some fresh air in the lovely countryside.
You can find more information about all the activities available on the island during the off-season in some of our most recent blog posts.
Forecast for Season 2021
At the moment we have no indication that the direction of the property sales market is going to change. We believe numbers will remain stable, or even slightly increase in 2021. We are still receiving continuous and serious interest from clients via all our channels.
The beginning of the vaccine campaigns should mean that our office will be able to remain open all year and clients should be able to keep coming to the Island, even if safety restrictions and health measures still apply. The virus will not disappear for next season, but the local government has been proactively working on health control measures to ensure that the main economy is affected as little as possible next year.
Most rental villas are seeing similar reservation levels to pre-Covid years, so we recommend our clients to get in touch with us as soon as possible if they are planning to come.
With all this said, it is time to wish you again the most wonderful holidays and say goodbye, until next year!
Victor Van den Driessche (Sales Director & Partner)
with Your Prestige Properties Team
Do you have any questions or need more info? Send us a message and we will get back as quickly as possible!
Winter in Ibiza with Prestige Properties | Part. 2 Cultural Experiences & Festivities
Cultural experiences and festivities in Ibiza during the winter months…
The winter months and off-season here in Ibiza can offer an entirely different aspect and set of experiences compared to the height of the summer, for both tourists visiting and those residing on a long-term basis.
Spectacular natural surroundings and remote beaches with plenty of leisure activities makes winter in Ibiza filled with a tremendous sense of the great outdoors. Our ‘Winter in Ibiza’ (part 1) highlights a brief introduction of activities for groups of friends and families to engage in and enjoy, everything from water sports, golfing, excursions, boating, guided hiking and cycling tours.
However, with Ibiza winter’s being more than eventful, and not just from a leisurely perspective, we’ve put together our second ‘Winter in Ibiza’ blog, solely focussing on the wealth of fantastic cultural experiences and festivities here in Ibiza.
If you’re considering taking the opportunity to explore Ibiza and enjoy some winter sun between October through to March, or you’re new to Ibiza on a permanent basis, then these cultural and social experiences may be just what you are looking for to ensure your winter in Ibiza is filled with an exciting itinerary.
Winter in Ibiza Part. 2 – Cultural Experiences and Festivities in Ibiza
Hippy Markets
Ibiza is renowned for its unique and lively artisan markets, some of which have been in existence since the start of the island’s tourism, dating back to the late 1950’s and early 1960’s.
For this historical reason alone, the summer months can often encounter an influx of tourists at the many ‘Hippy Market’ hotspots on offer. With plenty of regular weekly openings, events, great food and live music, these island attractions are always very popular and have brought regular recurring tourism year after year.
In the winter months, much of Ibiza still hosts regular markets which can be found scattered around various villages on a weekly basis (although not all). Each one is filled with arts, crafts, artisan fashion and jewelry, as well as some fantastic food options.
Hippy Markets during the winter offer a place where many can gather together for relaxed, casual weekends and enjoy a unique atmosphere (especially when compared to the rush of the summer), with a sense of history, culture and community all rolled into one.
Everything from the famous Las Dalias Hippy Market (held on Saturdays during the off-season) with its brightly decorated stadium of over 200 market stalls; to San Juan’s smaller local market (on Sunday’s), perhaps the most cultured hippy origin with entertaining live music, regular dancing and a delicious paella street food performance; to the grand flea market in Sant Jordi (every Saturday morning), selling an abundant of almost anything from ‘bric and brac’ to some relatively valuable household furniture.
These regular hippy market meeting points are bound to keep everybody entertained, bumping into familiar faces, meeting new friends and no doubt finding some fine gifts or treasured items.
Patron Days and Festivals
Ibiza may be well-known for it’s party and club culture, but the locals also have a ‘fiesta’ style of their own. The word fiesta itself translates to festival, carnival or can refer to an annual religious celebration. Here, local villages may honour their patron saint, a national holiday, or even a national food may be observed and commemorated. Either way or celebration, the Ibicencan culture likes to get festive, and on a very regular basis to say the least.
Almost every month throughout the year, a particular village on the island is filled with bustling streets of families and friends, consumed with market stalls, live music, parades, fancy dress, children’s activities, sports, competitions, folk dancing and of course plenty of freshly prepared authentic food and drink.
The festive event calendar is most definitely one to keep track of. You should know when the next Ibiza town event is occurring and beware of traffic, town road closures and closures of local supermarkets and stores. Equally, you wouldn’t want to miss out on some of the island’s most fun and festive experiences on offer.
There are four fantastic festivities, asides from the many patron saint days, that are particularly well celebrated throughout the winter here in Ibiza. ‘Dia de Reyes’ (Three Kings Day), ‘Rúas de Carnaval’ (Carnival Season), Ibiza Sabor Festival (local food festival) and the San Mateo Wine Festival are all fantastic events and well worth visiting for the day.
‘Día de Reyes’ takes place from the evening of January 5th and fills most of the following day, January 6th. The celebration is one of the biggest on the island, with the central theme relating to ‘The Three Kings’ presenting gifts to baby Jesus just after his birth. Naturally, with the Christmas spirit still optimal and most families coming to the end of their festive holiday, ‘Dia de Reyes’ offers an exciting end to the Christmas season. It’s a remarkably special event for the young who wait eagerly for ‘The Three Kings’ to arrive at the grand parades, either in Ibiza Town, Santa Eulalia, San Jose or San Antonio as they ride through the streets handing out sweets to the children. March offers the national ‘Rúas de Carnaval’, a large Spanish celebration whereby everybody gets creative and colourful with fancy dress costumes, organised performing arts, parades, live music, activities and wonderful decorations throughout every village and town. Most of the week is vibrant with different events throughout Ibiza and street parties to attend. Carnival throughout Spain marks the beginning of spring time, as celebrations take place prior to lent and signifying the Easter period.
The Ibiza Sabor Festival is organised by the Consell Insular d’Eivissa, and provides a local celebration comprising a wonderful food festival which incorporates many of the island’s fantastic restaurants. The day is filled with an array of special Mediterranean cuisine and tapas from a variety of restaurateurs. This spectacular day includes plenty of food demonstrations, eating at a discounted price at participating restaurants and visits to wineries for tastings. The event takes place usually between 31 October to 5 December on an annual basis.
Lastly, San Mateo hosts a lovely annual wine festival that usually takes place in December and is an opportunity for wine producers, restaurateurs and locals to get together and celebrate another great year in Ibiza. It’s a great festival to sample some of the finer gastro-fare that Ibiza has on offer and get acquainted with some of Ibiza’s local wine producers.
Cultural Attractions in Ibiza
Dalt Vila
Ibiza has plenty of history and cultural heritage to explore. Dalt Vila is perhaps the most well-known and monumental spot which offers a breath-taking central castle and Cathedral located at the very top of its mountainous city walls. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, declared in 1999, is a fantastic tourist attraction and offers outstanding views from its location across the entire island, the Mediterranean Sea and the isle of Formentera. Ibiza’s Cathedral, known as Catedral de Santa María was built in the 13th century and is representative of the stunning Gothic and Baroque Catalan architecture. The place of worship still encompasses the existing religious side of Ibiza locals with regular Mass and ceremonies often taking place.
Museums and Galleries in Ibiza: "Museum of Archaeology"
The Museum of Archaeology is also well-worth a visit if archaeology is of interest. The museum, located within Dalt Vila grounds is an institution that preserves and researches remains found on the island of Ibiza and Formentera over the past few thousand years, including excavated burial sites and ancient artefacts, taking visitors on a journey through a history of inhabitants from anywhere around the Punic and Roman times and thereafter.
Museums and Galleries in Ibiza: "Contemporary Art Museum"
The Contemporary Art Museum of Ibiza also located in Dalt Vila, is a wonderfully unique art gallery showcasing permanent collections of art from the 1960’s all the way through to new modern arts. Some fledgling collections of photography and regular visiting exhibitions is a great place where you can explore some of Ibiza’s most substantial artistic expressionists. The gallery is perfectly situated close to many trending bars and restaurants in the Dalt Vila area, so visitors can take time to relax and enjoy a different side of the island for the entire day.
Considering taking your next vacation in Ibiza during the winter season?
It is often the sheer beauty and opportunity to quest the island’s community, history, and uniqueness as the main motive for tourism during the off-season. And, if you wish to feel part of the real spirit of Ibiza, the off-season is the perfect time to do so.
We would highly recommend any kind of outdoor leisure activities and cultural experiences, and although this introduction of ideas and experiences from our two part blog is not exhaustive of all there is to see and do, it gives a good starting point of what is on offer during the winter season.
Thanks for staying updated with Prestige Properties Ibiza. We hope to see you this winter, making the most of the White Isle.
Do you have any questions or need more info? Send us a message and we will get back as quickly as possible!
Winter in Ibiza with Prestige Properties Ibiza | Part. 1 Nature & Leisure
Plenty of reasons to visit Ibiza during the winter months…
There are plenty of reasons to visit Ibiza during the winter months. With so much natural beauty to discover and community culture to encounter, it is not unusual to experience a personal love affair for regular ‘Winter’s in Ibiza’, as one starts to uncover its surroundings, mystery, spirit, and uniqueness.
Many local residents work hard all summer long, but as soon as the season settles, islanders quickly come out of the woodwork and into the light to enjoy the atmosphere and environment on offer. Everything from the beaches, outdoor water and land activities, restaurants, bars, shops, socialising, cultural experiences to festivities and events, are vibrant and bustling with enthusiasm from September through until the New Year.
There are also many companies that specialize in offering winter tours and activities for all to enjoy including, tennis, golfing, water sports, excursions, boating, hiking, cycling, markets, and artisan workshops. The list is endless!
With winter being more than eventful and enjoyed by many, we’ve put together a 2-part blog list on how we experience ‘Winter in Ibiza’ and what to expect from your winter vacation…
Winter in Ibiza Part. 1 – Nature and Leisure in Ibiza
Formentera
Formentera is an absolute must visit at any time of the year. Naturally, during the less ventured months, this small sister island of Ibiza, encounters a very remote setting of wild nature and local authenticity.
Despite its isolated ambience, Formentera is still incredibly spectacular with crystalline waters and white sands, filled with natural charm, brisk beach walks, open roads, local villages, lighthouses, mills and historical defense towers.
Chartering a boat or sailing is possible from Ibiza to Formentera, although the waters and wind may be choppy due to changes in the weather conditions. However, the Balearic Ferry is still operating from Ibiza Town regularly during the winter months, where you can take your hired transport ready for arrival on the other side with ease and convenience.
Most highly touristic restaurants, bars and beach clubs are closed from the end of September in Formentera, but a host of authentic and local spots are still operating all year round to enjoy a warm and fulfilling meal!
Hiking & Walking in Ibiza
We all know there are many health benefits related to regular exercise and being in nature. A fresh air walk in Ibiza, away from the smoke and the toxins of city life is guaranteed to give a boost of energy, brain reawakening, and a lift of spirits. If you have only ever visited in the summer, then walking and hiking is likely to be the last activity on the itinerary. The sun’s heat during the day, and the appeal for cooler spots by the beach, even as the day draws to an end, reaps way more benefits.
However, in the winter months, walking is an absolute gift and a great opportunity to see the real beauty of our pine filled island. There is a grand variety of hiking and walking options to participate in from the hills of Sa Talaia, the highest point on the island with outstanding mountain top views, the hills of San Juan, the natural springs of San Mateo, and the village of Santa Inés with its is a unique land, captivating beauty and sanctuary of cultivated almond trees; an exceptional sight and a truly preserved part of the island.
In fact, walking and hiking has become such a popular activity over the years, that from 2010 an official tour company, ‘Walking Ibiza’ has been hosting regular guided tours around the island with local and historical knowledge. Everything from private groups, local community groups, team building events and a 4-day coastal challenge is on offer from these pioneers of walking to discover the real Ibiza.
Touring – Quad Biking, Motorcycling, Cycling & Car Hire
If hiking is not a preferred preference, and exploring the island further afield to ensure all the top hot spots are uncovered, Ibiza has plenty of options to get around the island on wheels.
Depending on your ideal scenario and fitness levels, everything from quad biking, motorcycling, cycling & car hire is readily available even during the off-season. From late September the roads are usually quieter, with minimal traffic, and plenty of parking facilities. Winter is the optimal time to take a touring opportunity and adventure around the countryside, beach coves, restaurants and towns, which may otherwise be less desirable during the height of the season.
There are many car hire operators, offering very reasonable rates, but if you fancy something a little more unique, we would recommend Ducks United Ibiza. A Citroen 2cv vintage car rental company with artistic colours and designs to all their motors. Literally, take a step back to a simpler time in history and tour the island with a hippy alternative, which is also more energy efficient and eco-friendly than modern vehicles.
There are also many off-the-beaten track dirt roads and countryside cycling routes. Take a look at Bike Map, who boast of 164 different cycling routes across the island including everything from uphill routes, flat routes and top rated routes to long tours that cover every place imaginable.
Whilst it may appear that watersports are more of a summer activity, here in Ibiza weather conditions are often very pleasant throughout the winter, with plenty of sunshine and (some much needed) occasional rain. However, the winds do pick up which makes for a great environment for regular windsurfing, sailing and the occasional surf crusade!
DiveStar Ibiza in Cala Martina, Santa Eulalia is often buzzing directly outside with crowds of Kite and Wind Surfers, especially on a Sunday afternoon (wind dependant), where water sporting activities are quickly followed by a freshly prepared paella from the local all-year-round ‘Restaurante Martina’. DiveStar is also known to host the best equipment and facilities for Scuba Diving, which not only includes beginners courses but full qualifications and schooling (usually seasonals).
Surfing is a little less common, but not totally exempt, a few small spots around the island occasionally get a decent swell, where many gather to relish the opportunity, no matter how rare! If you fancy giving it a go for the first time, the waves are perfect for beginners on softer days, just simply check out Surf Reports for regular updates and wave reports. Top locations include, Aguas Blancas, Cala Nova, Cala Llenya, Cala Jondal and Can Pujol. Board rentals can be a bit tricky, but we recommend checking with your holiday provider for personal recommendations, if the waves happen to be kind during your stay!
Golf
Golf Ibiza, is the islands only Golf course, located in a very up-market area near Roca Llisa’s private housing urbanisation in Santa Eulalia. After opening in 1972 with a 9-hole course, and the later in 1992 with a second 18 hole course, and now under new management by Azul Line Hotels since 2017, the stunning facility is open annually to both golf lovers and visitors who would like to enroll in golf lessons.
With more than ten kilometers of outstanding countryside, breathtaking views and a constant sea breeze, Golf Ibiza is a unique and pleasant place to practice golf with family and friends during the winter season. In addition, Golf Ibiza’s restaurant and most recent development to the golf club, Hoyo 19, promises luxurious and delicious Mediterranean cuisine to complete the experience
Considering taking your next vacation in Ibiza during the winter season?
It is often the sheer beauty and opportunity to quest the island’s splendor as the main motive for tourism during the off-season. And, if you wish to feel part of the real spirit of Ibiza, the off-season is the perfect time to do so.
We would highly recommend any kind of outdoor leisure activities. There are so many great opportunities across the island to engage in and enjoy Ibiza’s natural side. These activities feel all the more special and gain an extra sense of wide open space and quiet retreat when the island is less overcrowded.
With more cultural activities and experiences to enjoy during the winter, we hope you also enjoy our Part 2 Culture & Festivities Ibiza blog, coming soon!
Thanks for staying updated with Prestige Properties Ibiza. We hope to see you this winter, making the most of the White Isle.
If you are considering travelling to Ibiza this year and are still yet to book accommodation, then why not check out our Ibiza holiday villas on offer.
Our team members are always ready to help you with your travel opportunities and are happy to assist you with any of your questions, so get in touch with us today!
Do you have any questions or need more info? Send us a message and we will get back as quickly as possible!
Ibiza 2021 – Why Ibiza holds high expectations for a strong future tourism!
Ibiza 2021 and what to expect…
Ibiza Season 2020
We may still be in the latter part of season 2020, but with many travel plans postponed, cancellations of flights and numerous ongoing global travel restrictions; we think it safe to say that many of us are ready to put our disappointments for the year 2020 behind us and start looking forward to a brighter horizon – and this includes our desire to travel and enjoy our usual summer vacations again in the near future!
Despite a very unexpected turn around for the tourism industry here in Ibiza over the past few months, we believe, Ibiza 2021 is going to see a positive season and an influx of tourism.
So, what gives us this strong sense of expectation?
Planning Ahead Summer 2021
Whilst next year may seem far off, planning travel in advance for 2021 may be more necessary than before. In recent years, with the speed of the internet and booking systems, tourism in Ibiza has demonstrated many last minute bookings for various weeks throughout the season. The occurrence of pre-planning and securing dream vacations in advance mostly consisted of longer stays for up to or over a month, when considering larger group vacations, first choice luxury villas, events, and those extra popular summer months like August. However, now, in the light of recent circumstances, we are seeing even more forward travel planning than usual.
We have noted that many ‘postponed 2020 travel plans’ have already selected dates directly into the 2021 calendar, which inevitably means the annual holiday diary has already started to fill up at a much faster rate than previous years.
This additionally must take into consideration the many extra travel dates moved for weddings and events, that were also due to take place during the 2020 season.
Aside from these ‘change of date’ bookings, whether vacation or event, we have also noted a recent increase of travel enquiries for Ibiza 2021, which is usually a rarer occurrence during the height of summer.
In fact, "drawing on Google data, a study was revealed by travel company Kuoni, who mapped the most searched for and most popular 2021 holiday destinations for 131 countries around the world. The study showed a clear demand for future travel, with Google Trends indicating that searches for "2021 holiday" increased by 124% when compared to the end of March". – Lonely Planet 2020.
So, it would appear now is the perfect and popular time to consider booking travel for next year!
Flexibility and Risk-Free Travel
The COVID-19 pandemic has taught all travellers one thing about the validation of travel insurance policies in such circumstances, whereby for the majority, epidemics and pandemics are not covered. Therefore, flexibility has become a key component for many hotels, travel agents and airline companies who are adapting to accommodate customers.
The overall essence for the travel industry is to offer (in the case of travel restrictions both current and future) risk free bookings and flexible date changes.
Many agents and hotels are also offering discounted rates for early 2021 bookings to help sustain the economy here. It is now more important than ever to fully understand the need to be flexible and be prepared to make changes where required.
Therefore, customers and travellers can feel reassured that there is no need to stop planning future travel, but just feel comfortable with flexible date options, and be able to adjust if necessary.
Of course, this may mean more organising and forward planning with work commitments, school holidays and so on. But it also allows travellers plenty of time to wisely pre-empt ‘the worst-case scenario’ and have a ‘Plan B’ should travel be affected.
During the wait, 2021 travel planning can in fact be a fun process. Consider how to better appreciate the luxury of travel and make the most of your upcoming vacation with personalised detailed itineraries and visit those places you always dreamed of but never got round too.
What to Expect from Ibiza 2021
Whilst we evidently cannot fully predict the future, it is clear that Ibiza has adapted to the current circumstances and is taking a positive attitude, where possible to continue business as usual.
The nightclubs have been most affected by safety measurements put in place and have been required to remain closed throughout 2020. However, despite this annual setback many have already begun to forward plan for Ibiza 2021.
Hi Ibiza has recently announced next year’s residency with 2021 declared to be their biggest summer to date, bringing world class DJs, state-of-the-art productions, and a promise to put the clubber at the centre of the experience. Additional to their returning residencies Afterlife, Black Coffee, F*** Me I’m Famous! and Glitterbox, new residents include The Martinez Brothers and FISHER to join the party.
We fully hope to see the Ibiza club scene return as usual in 2021. However, with or without the nightclubs open, Ibiza is a determined island which has demonstrated throughout 2020 its passion for tourism despite the circumstances.
Even without the world-famous nightclubs open, our island has hosted a fresh interest for culinary experience, sunset charters and private yachts, travel for natural beauty and relaxation, and adventuring those less travelled paths and discovering the islands hidden gems too! With overcrowding at a minimum and roads traffic free, Ibiza has been a beautiful and rare experience that we should all take into consideration even if travel numbers need to stay lower and safety measures (like closure of the nightclubs) remain in place.
When planning for 2021, finding a destination that offers security and safety does include Ibiza, despite mainland Spain having steep surges of Covid-19 cases.
Ibiza has seen relatively low figures of Covid-19 in comparison to the rest of Spain and Europe. The healthcare system on the island has been stable throughout with minimal critical patients.
Our government has been incredibly efficient in ensuring the health and well-being of everyone, both residents and those visiting the island. Safety regulations have ensured Ibiza’s tourism and lifestyle is continuing on a positive path and remains open.
Proudly, we can say the island is fully complying and respecting the measurements put in place, which can only give us hope that the virus will remain contained, with no further outbreaks or state of alarm, and 2021 can continue with as much normality as possible.
Travel may look different post-Covid-19, however we are optimistic for the future and 2021.
Thanks for staying updated with Prestige Properties Ibiza. If you are considering travelling to Ibiza and are still yet to book accommodation, then why not check out our Ibiza Holiday Villas on offer.
Our team members are always ready to help you with your travel opportunities and are happy to assist you with any of your questions, so get in touch with us today!
Do you have any questions or need more info? Send us a message and we will get back as quickly as possible!
[Interview] Ibiza 2020 and Property Market Update with Prestige Properties Ibiza
A new interview with Victor, Partner & Sales Director of Prestige Properties Ibiza, about Covid-19 in Ibiza and the effect on the Island’s Property Market
What is open and available for tourists visiting the island this summer 2020?
The summer of 2020 has certainly encountered a slow start due to recent global events. However, with national flights between the Balearics and mainland Spain occurring from late June and international flights from July 1st, Ibiza is now officially open for the majority and enjoying a different, yet remarkable tourism season considering the circumstances.
The good news is, all of the island’s outdoor spaces are now open for public use which includes all the beaches, marinas, outdoor activity spaces such as tennis clubs, golfing, water sports and diving clubs, general group water activities like paddle boarding and kayak excursions, boating as well as land leisure activities such as hiking and cycling.
Most restaurants, bars and shops are back to business with more places opening each and every day. We have been pleasantly surprised at the atmospheric vibrancy of the food and beverage industry and could not be happier for businesses to be flourishing again. The only main difference when compared to previously, is the night clubs still remain closed.
What activities would you recommend for tourists visiting this season and why?
Ibiza is the ideal island to explore and get acquainted with the beautiful hidden gems on offer. During July, August and most of September the island is usually extremely busy, which often leaves many visitors reluctant to hire a car and hit the road with the intense traffic and lack of parking in so many spots.
This year is an optimal summer to take a touring opportunity and adventure around different beach coves, restaurants and towns, which may otherwise be less desirable during the height of the season for most.
We would highly recommend any kind of outdoor leisure activities. Ibiza is an ideal place for cycling, playing tennis, snorkeling, night canoeing and taking a fun day with paddle boards out to sea. There are so many great opportunities and activities across the island to engage in and enjoy Ibiza’s natural side.
With fewer people this year, these activities feel all the more special and gain an extra sense of wide open space and quiet retreat. There are many companies that specialize in offering tours and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Formentera is an absolute must visit. With its crystalline waters and white sands, this small sister island of Ibiza will feel very much like a personal tropical island this season. Whether renting a boat or catching the ferry from Ibiza’s Marina or Santa Eulalia, spending the day in Formentera with its spectacular beaches, luxury seafront restaurants and seeing it’s glorious sunsets is nothing short of a perfect summer day in our opinion.
What is new in Ibiza this year?
Every year in Ibiza new and exciting venues open and join the lively social aspect of the island. Here are the top latest additions to our home which we are sure are worth a visit during your next Ibiza holiday!
Hotel W – Santa Eulalia
W Ibiza is a much anticipated brand new 5-star seafront hotel boasting of luxury suites, fine dining restaurant, regular nightlife music and Dj sets as well as a stunning health, wellness and spa centre. W Ibiza strikes a pose on the palm-fringed, sand-drenched beachfront of Santa Eulalia. This is where you get to stay and play with a brand that was made for the White Isle. The hotel comes complete with its very own yet separate seafront Chiringuito Blue Restaurant and a Vegan VE Cafe.
Alma Beach Bar and Restaurant – Port des Torrent
Alma Beach Ibiza is a brand new boho chic styled beach bar and restaurant situated directly on the beach of Port des Torrent, who are committed to an ibizan lifestyle concept in hospitality. The restaurant offers three different restaurant proposals, sunset, brasas and wellness, with one common denominator: to promote healthy cuisine with top quality ingredients.
Alma Beach Ibiza is a unique place in which to enjoy the magical moments that the Pitiusa island has to offer.
Bam-Bu-Ku – San Antonio
Bam-Bu-Ku brought to Ibiza by the famous west end O Beach, a new family friendly day experience to San Antonio. A perfect opportunity for anyone looking for a lazy day under the Mediterranean sunshine, overlooking the pool whilst sprawled out on the luxury venue beds, complete with a personal waiter service. Here you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in a paradisiacal restaurant featuring a wanderlust menu of tropical fusion cuisine.
Es Birra – Es Cana
Es Birra Ibiza is Es Canar’s new socialite place to be if you’re located in the Santa Eulalia area. The old original night club of the 90’s has been taken over by a group of young and innovative individuals where craft beer, a typical gastronomical matching menu and a variety of live music genres exists. Es Birra brings forth a brand new trendy venue with plenty of indoor and outdoor space and an authentic Ibizan tribe.
WOW – San Rafel
WOW is a house for people to meet, gather and enjoy tantalising cocktails, pure, honest, raw and refined food combined with vintage furniture and retro interiors. It’s everything from a co-working space, to brunches at the weekend, art exhibitions and an array of seating areas to suit any mood.
How do you think the island will be different without the nightclub tourism scene this season?
The island is definitely much quieter than usual for this time of the year and we hope this knowledge encourages visitors and potential visitors of tourism, that quieter is in fact safer, with less overcrowding.
This means we are encountering more families, couples and low key groups of friends from across Europe as a result of the nightclub scene remaining closed and also many of the big tour operator hotels, which is setting a very different tone to the island.
With less extremes over the summer, the overall atmosphere and vibe has to date been more relaxed and demonstrates a similar collective of tourists, which would normally be seen during low season in Ibiza.
What measurements and regulations have been set in Ibiza for health and safety management that tourists and visitors need to be aware of?
If you are visiting or considering visiting Ibiza in the coming months, we would like everybody to feel reassured that Ibiza tourism and lifestyle is continuing on a positive path and is open for your enjoyment.
Certain regulations and safety measures are set to keep everyone feeling welcomed and able to enjoy their surroundings whilst still minimising overcrowding. Social distancing measures of 2m and facial masks continue in all indoor public spaces such as shops and supermarkets etc.
The Balearic Islands recently made an extra adjustment to their current measurements in relation to the health and safety standards for all citizens and tourists who are visiting this season 2020. On Monday 13th July, a minor addition was made, similar to other European countries, whereby facial protective masks must be worn in all open spaces within urban areas, instead of only in closed public spaces.
Outdoor living and social events such as relaxing on beaches, swimming, sporting activities, eateries, walking and exploring the countryside can continue as normal, mask free!
The general expectation of the public within these outdoor settings is to maintain respect for one another and uphold social distancing between smaller groups and others as well as reducing overcrowding as much as possible.
All public businesses including food and beverage industries have been advised on strict health and safety standards including all members of staff checking temperatures before each working shift and the utilisation of masks at all times when serving customers.
Do you envision a shift in seasonal tourism or an extension of the summer this year?
We hope the latter part of the summer season will be stronger compared to the beginning of the main season and for this to continue into the early part of the winter also.
The main season has started slowly so we hope to see September and October as good months for the local economy. We don’t envision big changes, but ultimately it will all depend on the evolution of the health and well being of the current COVID-19 circumstances and the public here in Ibiza.
What is the meaning of "Veroño"?
Veroño is a term made up of two Spanish words, Verano (meaning Summer) and Otoño (meaning Autumn). The term is the way we express the continuation of summer into the autumn months, and the beautiful spring-like after seasons we experience here on the Island from October through to early December.
The sea remains warm long after the big crowds leave and the weather usually stays warm and pleasant well into November. Most restaurants and businesses stay open until Christmas and for islanders, Veroño is almost like a quiet, tranquil spring setting with the majority of low-season opportunities and social events, including a few authentic parties to mark the end of the season and celebrate with each other. Winter for us starts officially in January.
Peace and rest. For most of us it is time to regenerate and spend quality time with our families, friends and among nature. Work is always quieter, but it allows the opportunity to prepare and get creative with new fresh ideas for the following season.
What secret hidden gems would you recommend to discover in Ibiza during the off-season?
During the summer season, many of us are busy working and are unable to find time to take on extra activities, especially under the heat, overcrowding and traffic on the island.
Winter offers the perfect space and weather to remember why we live here. There are so many beautiful spots to explore, hills to hike and local all-year round restaurants to visit. Ibiza is never short of a beautiful day out and there’s always something new and undiscovered, even for those that have been here as locals for many years.
Sa Talaia, the highest point on the island offers a fantastic hike with outstanding mountain top views. The hills in San Juan are also of incredible value for nature lovers. To simply experience a coffee in a local Ibizan bar among locals or to visit the natural springs of San Mateo, near Can Suleyetas, and then grab a tasty bocadillo, are simply priceless experiences that residents treasure during the winter time.
Current Ibiza Property Market
Are clients’ still actively seeking to buy property in Ibiza and have there been any significant changes in the Ibiza Property Market since the announcement of the Global Pandemic?
What we have evidently seen to date has been very encouraging. The online interest and activity has remained very strong with an increase in interactions (requests, website visits) from potential and future clients during the lockdown period. It appears many were utilising their quarantine to research and pursue buying their desired property in Ibiza.
Buyers are far from changing their mind. Since July, viewings have resumed and many clients are arriving on the island to continue their property search now that the flights have reopened. So we can say that all is very active, yes!
We are generally not expecting the property market to have a drop, mainly because the demand is high and the supply is always very low in Ibiza.
We would simply advise anyone looking to buy a property in Ibiza to follow their projects and make sure you continue to work with experienced professionals and remain fully informed and updated.
It is still very early to predict the level of impact in the long-term. There will inevitably be changes and marked impressions on a global scale. However, Ibiza has always proven to be a solid market, so if you are well informed, you will be sure to make a good profitable decision.
What is the best advice you could offer those considering or currently with a buy to rent property in Ibiza ?
Individual situations for those looking for buy-to-rent properties and tourism licenses will very much depend on the individual needs, their mortgages, general income and their dependency on tourism rentals as a main source of income.
However, we would highly recommend any client to consider the long term prospects, have a good strategy about pricing and think about beginning to build a good client base (which can be done by selecting a strong agent). Ibiza is a very desirable tourism hotspot across the globe and is guaranteed to drive revenue in the long-term.
Future Outlook
How has Prestige Properties Ibiza as a business and a team had to adapt to recent events and how do you perceive the near future to look like as a company?
We all had to adapt during the past few months. Working from home, working part time and taking care of our families. Gaining a new work-life balance has not been an easy time for any of us.
Proudly, we as a team have worked closely together and hard to improve every part of the business and the service we offer to the island and our clients, which makes us positive about the future. We are ready to work our way whatever comes our way.
We have stayed open throughout. All our agents have been active. We have been spending more time than ever finalising our website and the presentation of our properties, as well as setting up our new virtual viewings service.
Potential buyers have still been able to get a closer feel for properties on the market and have been able to fully continue with their buyers journey.
Do you think the tourism industry will be strongly affected in the upcoming season 2021?
We will all have to continue to adapt to the circumstances and our ‘new normality’. Many agents have offered 2021 secure risk free bookings and more last minute deals for 2020.
The important thing to remember is to keep all safety measures and the well-being of the public as our main priority as an island and in business. Ultimately 2021 will depend on the evolution of the virus. We hope 2021 will resume back to normal and see a much improved tourism season, as a company we will be prepared as much as possible in advance for both the best and worst case scenario.
What can the local community, businesses and visitors do to ensure we are all supporting one another positively?
As previously mentioned, the general expectation of the public within both indoor and outdoor settings is to maintain respect for one another and uphold social distancing and safety measures.
It is of utmost importance all visitors respect the beauty of the island and dispose of masks correctly into the recycling bins and not leave for others to clean up, especially on the beaches.
Lastly, if individuals do not feel fit to travel or feel unwell on arrival, then please follow the guidelines and ensure everyone is kept safe.
Thanks for staying updated with Prestige Properties Ibiza. We hope you enjoy your stay in Ibiza this season 2020.
If you are considering travelling to Ibiza this year and are still yet to book accommodation, then why not check out our Ibiza holiday villas on offer.
Our team members are always ready to help you with your travel opportunities and are happy to assist you with any of your questions, so get in touch with us today!
